Killybegs man’s marathon run raises €14,720 for Donegal Hospice

Pictured at Donegal Hospice celebrating the presentation of €14,720 raised through Bernard Byrne's Dublin Marathon fundraiser are (left to right): Nicola McKinley, Bernard Byrne and Seamus Byrne | DonegalLive

placeholder image — Pictured at Donegal Hospice celebrating the presentation of €14,720 raised through Bernard Byrne's Dublin Marathon fundraiser are (left to right): Nicola McKinley, Bernard Byrne and Seamus Byrne | DonegalLive

Bernard Byrne came back from Australia and took part in the Dublin Marathon last month in memory of his late mother Mary

Killybegs native Bernard Byrne has presented a cheque for €14,720 to Donegal Hospice after completing the Dublin Marathon in memory of his late mother, Mary.

Bernard, who now lives in Perth, Australia, returned home to take on the marathon as a tribute to his mother, who passed away in September 1997, aged just 42.

Almost 30 years later, Bernard wanted to give something back to the hospice that cared for his mother during her final weeks.

Speaking following the cheque presentation, Bernard said: "I never imagined we'd raise this much. The generosity of everyone back home, in Australia and beyond, has been unbelievable.

Pictured at Donegal Hospice for the presentation of €14,720 raised through Bernard Byrne's Dublin Marathon fundraiser in memory of his late mother, Mary, are (left to right): Isobel Rodgers, Bernard Byrne and Karen Mugan | DonegalLive

"Donegal Hospice cared for Mum at a time when our family needed it most, so being able to come back almost 30 years later and hand over €14,720 is something I'm incredibly proud of.

"A massive thank you to everyone who donated, shared the fundraiser or supported me along the way. I couldn't have done it without you."

Isobel Rodgers, Chairperson and Administrator of Donegal Hospice, praised Bernard's efforts.

"Bernard's incredible fundraising effort is a touching tribute to his mother, Mary. We are extremely grateful to him and everyone who contributed. This generous donation will help us continue providing vital care and support to patients and families throughout Donegal."

The cheque presentation marks the conclusion of a special fundraising journey, honouring Mary's memory while supporting a cause close to Bernard's heart.